In summary, welding the thicker, more conductive tabs used in today's more efficient, higher capacity battery packs can be challenging, but welding success can be achieved by designing the parts co.
Which welding method is best suited to a battery pack?
In this article, we will discuss multiple welding methods from resistance welding to laser welding technologies and see when one is better suited over another. To join cells into a battery pack, the cell terminals are welded together in serial or parallel to achieve either a higher voltage, higher capacity, or both.
In summary, welding the thicker, more conductive tabs used in today's more efficient, higher capacity battery packs can be challenging, but welding success can be achieved by designing the parts correctly and selecting equipment that is best suited to the application.
“We see a lot of laser welding and ultrasonic wedge bonding for the larger packs,” says Boyle at Amada Weld Tech. “If the packs or the overall volume are smaller, then resistance welding is often used. Micro-TIG comes up for specialised battery packs with low-volume production.
Can micro-TIG welding be used for battery packs?
The micro-TIG is used for butt, fillet, and lap welds very effectively, and it can go beyond the 0.02″ thick copper without problems. But, it's interesting to note that there are no reports of micro-TIG welding in the manufacturing of electric vehicles battery packs.
There are only so many ways to join materials together, and for battery applications – particularly where high currents and voltages and tough operating environments are encountered – welding beats alternatives such as soldering, conductive adhesives and mechanical fasteners.
What is a battery pack welding application?
Whether to power our latest portable electronic device, power tool, or hybrid/electric vehicle, the removable battery pack is essential to our everyday lives. Tab-to-terminal connection is one of the key battery pack welding applications.